So, you’re going on your very first big ski trip and you find yourself in a bit of a predicament. You are extremely excited as it’s your first time out on the slopes but at the same time you’re a bit nervous, too. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back in this rundown on the essentials for your first big skiing trip.

Let’s Talk Gear

If you’re planning on hitting the slopes hard, the most important thing you’ll need is decent gear. There are two routes that you can take when it comes to getting your gear. You could rent at the resort itself or you could go the slightly pricier route and just buy it.

Renting

This option would be the most convenient of the two as it won’t cost you too much and you don’t need to go through the trouble of transporting everything to your travelling destination. Numerous ski resorts have made it easier on visitors by having an on-site ski store where you get to rent and buy premium gear.

Buying

It’s always better to have your own gear if you are planning on taking your skiing to the next level. This option will eliminate any chance of you getting stuck with worn out oversized gear. There’s nothing worse than having to settle for skis that are either too big or too small.

Having your own gear’s also better on the long run as you won’t have to worry about damaging the resort’s property as you are guaranteed to fall at least once in the beginning. Buying gear doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg; at some ski stores like Gone skiing, you have the added option of buying used equipment.

The items you’ll need on your first trip

Jackets

Many have attempted to conquer the cold but we’re still talking snow. So, instead of fighting it out to show how strong you are, rather just buy yourself a proper jacket. It’s important that it is waterproof, wind resistant, and breathable. If you’re looking for something versatile then you should consider a lighter, thinner option. Most of these jackets come with MacGyver-like features such as snow skirts, lift pass pockets, zipped pockets to protect your valuables and finally connections to control your phone or iPod.

Gloves

Here’s one item you can’t afford to forget. Gloves are a necessity when you go skiing or snowboarding. The comfiest, and probably the best route to go, would be thick and waterproof. Luckily, you get different types of gloves to choose from that suit every style and expertise level.

Pants

We all know it’s a no-brainer that you’d need pants when you go out but the question is does everyone know what the best pants are to get? Well, today’s the day you’ll receive a quick rundown on how to choose the right pants. It’s short and simple: they need to be waterproof, wind resistant, and breathable. That’s all it is. Dungarees have a bib and braces to prevent snow from entering your pants while ski pants are easier to take off. Make sure that they tuck over your boots to keep snow out.

Beanies

It’s a fact that most of your body heat escapes through your head. So, it’s quite important to try and keep as much heat put as possible. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to this item as many riders choose to stand out of the crowd and manufacturers saw this as an opportunity to go wild with colour and graphics options.

Ski socks

If you’re planning on spending most of your time in the snow it might be best to leave your secret socks at home. Ski socks are warmer, thicker, and longer thus you’re assured that your piggies stay nice and warm at all times. Try and stay away from ribbed socks as they will leave you with some nasty blisters and bruises as they cause pressure points on your heels and shins.

Leather boots

Finally, we reach the big-ticket item: leather boots. If you’re planning on renting your gear instead of buying then this might be your most expensive purchase. If you’re someone who can’t function when they have cold and wet feet, then boots with rubber soles are the way to go. They need to be high-sided and you’ll have to use wax treatment to waterproof your boots and to protect the leather. You could go for the even more expensive option of a moonboot but you’ll mostly only wear them while you’re at the ski resort.

Hopefully, now you are a little less nervous about your first big skiing trip.

You can visit the Gone Skiing store before you head out on your trip. The professionals there are trained to give the best advice possible.

Safe travels!

Guest blog by David du Plooy, Gone Skiing

To learn what the various ski terms mean and the colours on the slopes, read this.

There are plenty of other blogs which will help you with your snow holiday, including tips from various GMs.

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